Medicare starts soon

[ArthurKotb]

According to the Medicare site, it is unlikely that you will receive coverage outside the US. When I travel outside the US I get a separate, temporary policy because I don't want any nightmare bills that would ruin me financially. Temporary insurance is relatively cheap (even in your 70s) and you can bundle it with travel insurance.

I stand corrected on the cost of part B. It is income based. However, most people pay $164.90. You will pay more if you earn more than $97,000 (single) or $194,000 (joint) per year as reported to the IRS. Above that the rate varies and is available at the Medicare site. https://www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/11579-medicare-costs.pdf

I also stand corrected on the Advantage plans. They can be HMO or PPO. I had investigated them at retirement and didn't like the HMO plan, didn't know there was another option. I've been on Medicare since 2013 and have not had any problems but it's nice that you can change your coverage at re-enrollment.

Thanks for your input

 

[Oldmanb777]

I certainly would not rely on getting reimbursed for international medical costs. And I think it smart to carry some other type of international medical insurance.
I am very familiar with 2 incidences where people got reimbursed. Both were injuries in Europe. But again, i would not count on it, better to be proactive with that. We sold a long time rental property. wE got hit very hard with MAGI and IRMA.